
In theory, parking spaces serve only one function: park a car safely until it is used again, and in terms of design, car garages are flexible and straightforward, requiring minimal design interventions. However, parking spaces nowadays are no longer considered one-function buildings. The emptier the space, the more potential it has to integrate additional functions. Architects and urban planners have redefined traditional parking lots, adding recreational and commercial facilities to the structure. Instead of a typical structured grid plan with yellow and white markings on the floor, we are now seeing inviting structures that incorporate green facades and rooftop playgrounds, car washes, cafeterias, and work/study zones.
Although parking spaces are often overlooked, they have a great influence on how people respond to the spaces they are driving through. Whether the driver did not find a wide empty lot, or a bunch of cars piled up behind him/her while attempting to park, these spaces can be detrimental to the driver's mood if not well designed. Other burdens include being surrounded by a great number of columns, not enough space to change the car's direction, not enough space for pedestrians to walk next to the car, etc.
